Lifestyle

Saving Money on Your Energy Bill in the Texas Summer Heat

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Tony Maples Photography

 

Due to the extremely high heat we’ve been experiencing here in Texas, you may be looking at a higher than normal energy bill. The probability that you’re running your air conditioning more, or have lowered the temperature on your central air thermostat, is high. And, with that comes higher charges and less money to use on summer fun.

Surprisingly, there are ways and means of lowering the cost and saving some money on your energy consumption. One option is to revert to the use of strictly your ceiling fans (if you have them) at night as opposed to maintaining air conditioning over a 24-hour period. According to Del Mar Fans & Lighting, “In the summer, ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise to push cool air down to the floor. The cool air evaporates perspiration and creates a wind chill effect, which makes you feel cooler without affecting the room temperature. This allows you to set the thermostat at a higher temperature without forfeiting comfort.” While you’re away, or even while you’re home for that matter, you could also close blinds and curtains to keep out the natural light and therefore the heat that gets generated as a result. It’s a relatively cost-effective way to ensure your air conditioner doesn’t have to work too hard.

Saving Money on Your Energy Bill in the Texas Summer Heat

Photo: Cannon Air Force Base

Second, do a quick check around your house for drafts, since your cool air can quickly escape if your home has drafts. According to Leticia Castellanos, Vice President of Energy at Stream Energy, this is an easy process. “What you need to do is take the dollar bill, open your door, close the door and pull it, if it’s easy and glides, then you need to change the weather stripping.” The proper application of weather stripping around your doors and windows, or caulking in homes where pets reside, can go a long way toward saving you money on your energy bill.

Saving Money or Your Energy Bill in the Texas Summer Heat

Photo: Pixabay

If your home has an HVAC unit, have it cleaned as often as every 30 days, to maintain its performance and ensure efficiency. Change central air/furnace filters when dirty, which will result in improved air intake or flow, and subsequently reduced strain and increased energy for the unit to operate properly. This can also be done for window air conditioning units. Vacuum with an upholstery attachment for heavy debris, use soapy water to rinse the filters, and allow them to dry fully prior to re-installing. This will provide optimal air flow. Another option which you can plan for in the long term is the installation of a smart thermostat. They have the ability to manage air conditioning and heating controls for times when no one is in your home, and therefore certain settings can be adjusted. They allow for lowered energy bills as a result, in some cases up to 10 percent. Check with your energy service provider or your central air company/service technician for guidance and potential pricing in order to plan accordingly.